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Ras Al Khaimah Celebrates Record-Breaking Tourism Year with 1.28 million Visitors in 2024

January 22, 2025 | Press Release

Ras Al Khaimah closed 2024 on a high note, achieving its strongest tourism performance to date with 1.28 million overnight arrivals. This represents a 12% increase in tourism revenues, driven by new hotels, expanded air connectivity, and high-profile events.

Raki Phillips, CEO of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA), described 2024 as a “milestone year,” crediting strategic initiatives for the Emirate’s growth. “Looking ahead, we aim to position Ras Al Khaimah as a destination of the future. With significant investments and groundbreaking developments, 2025 is set to be another remarkable year,” he said.

Key Milestones
The Emirate’s 2024 achievements include:

Sustainability Leadership: Named the ‘Middle East’s Most Sustainable Project’ at the Forbes Middle East Sustainability Leaders’ Summit, Ras Al Khaimah became the first destination in the region to earn EarthCheck Silver Certification.
Connectivity Expansion: Direct flights from nine cities—including Moscow, Warsaw, Jeddah, and Hyderabad—enhanced access to Ras Al Khaimah International Airport.
Luxury Hospitality Growth: Two high-profile properties, Sofitel Al Hamra Beach Resort and Anantara Mina Al Arab Resort, added new luxury offerings, including the Emirate’s first overwater villas.
Events Tourism: The Emirate hosted events like the HIGHLANDER Adventure hiking challenge, the Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon, and the Global Citizen Forum. A Seven Wonders concert series kicked off with international acts.
Record-Breaking New Year’s Eve: Ras Al Khaimah’s fireworks and drone display earned two GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ titles, marking a memorable end to the year.

Sustainability and Accessibility
Ras Al Khaimah reinforced its commitment to sustainability, announcing plans to preserve 20 archaeological sites and partnering with Sage Inclusion to audit accessibility across hotels, attractions, and transport. These efforts aim to make the Emirate more inclusive for travellers with disabilities.

Focus on MICE Tourism
Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) tourism grew by 15%, driven by strategic partnerships and initiatives like free visas for Indian MICE groups. The Emirate engaged with over 80 international markets, strengthening its position as a premier MICE destination.

Looking Ahead
As Ras Al Khaimah works toward its 2030 goal of attracting 3.5 million annual visitors, the foundation laid in 2024 provides a solid trajectory. With new projects and events lined up for 2025, the Emirate is poised to maintain its upward momentum.

 

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